The Inaugural Hood 2 River Relay – A Day of Fun, Family, Friends and Fitness

June 3, 2014

From Press Release:

It was a spring t-shirt weather kind of day here in the Hood as 320 participants took in 6 ways to enjoy 6000 feet of Downhill Fun in the Hood 2 River!

From the start at Mt Hood Meadows Ski Resort all the way down through the Hood River Valley to the mighty Columbia River, locals and visitors were making history in the first multi-sport, all inclusive event of this kind in the area. The Hood 2 River Relay is designed for almost any level of skill and fitness, yet competitive enough for the hardcore athlete. It did not disappoint.

Smiles and sweat were in abundance from the first 10am start wave to the final finishers over 4 hours later. During those 46 mile of downhill the competitors completed six Legs that consisted of; Alpine ski (snowboard), Nordic ski, mountain bike, road bike, road run, paddling (kayak/canoe/SUP) and a 500 meter sprint to the finish line after boating. Categories included: Individual, 2 Person Team, 6 Person Team, High School Team, Business and Family Team.

Chad Sperry, race director and owner of Breakaway Promotions said; “We could not have asked for a more perfect day to showcase this event, the community, the amazing scenery and the accessible outdoor recreation our area has to offer. The participation and enthusiasm of the folks that came out to compete and the people that came to support and enjoy the event far exceeded our expectations. The happy faces beaming with accomplishment and camaraderie are exactly the motivation of why we love to put these events on. You bet we’ll be back to do this again next year!”

The local community had a very strong representation in the relay with many familiar faces. Participants ranged from ages 8-68 with 45% women and 55% men. They were not only from the local area, but also came from; Portland, Seattle, Bend, Eugene, Truckee, CA, Sisters, Gig Harbor, WA, and Scottsdale, AZ. Dropping into the Pairs Category with the name Victorious Secrets, was Sara Max, recent winner of the Pole, Peddle, Paddle two weeks ago in Bend.

The fastest Individual time for men was Kevin Brown (Portland) 2:35:41. Women’s Individual winner was Sue Butler (Portland) at 3:01:59. Butler, a seasoned bike racer said; “It really wasn’t about the winning or losing. It was about the people. It was about the experience. It was about the personal challenge. It was fun. Like bike racing always was. A great Saturday in the books. I am glad I put it on my calendar. Despite not being able to walk afterwards! Thanks to Breakaway Promotions and Chad Sperry for creating this event and making it happen. It should be put on your bucket list. You won’t be sorry.”

Post race festivities at the Marina Green included a finish line photo booth for competitors, vendor expo, food, beverages, awards and prizes, and live music by Tony Smiley for all.